Donald M. Payne: “President Clinton in his State of the Union Address promised ``to end the era of big government.'' Big government is…”

“President Clinton in his State of the Union Address promised ``to end the era of big government.'' Big government is over. I think we've got the wrong idea of exactly what the Government should and should not do. The other side wants us to believe that the United States should not be responsive to the needs of the poor, the hungry, and the dying. They don't want to share in the cost of peacekeeping missions, sustainable development programs, population assistance, and our national security. Yes, the cold war and imminent nuclear threats of communism and remnants of the past. The core missions of USAID, USIA, and ACDA have changed. Nonetheless, they have been able to adapt to the paradigm shifts of this era. I am ashamed that I live in a society that devalues human life. While our aid budget is shrinking, our defense budget is steadily increasing. Looks to me like someone forgot to tell the GOP that the Soviet Union is gone. The GOP claim that this piece of legislation is important because it reflects our American values. Our American values? If this is a reflection of our American values, it is clear just what we value. We spend less than 1 percent on aid to less developed countries even though the American people said they would be in favor of a 5-percent increase. The G-7 countries especially Japan has become the No. 1 aid donor. They are outranking us in everything. Where should U.S. foreign policy be targeted for the 21st century? I'll tell you.…”